
Spoelstra: No need to penalize Ball any further
Erik Spoelstra supports no further penalties for LaMelo Ball after flagrant foul.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are likely to extend Baker Mayfield's contract soon, as he has shown consistent performance with over 4,000 passing yards and 30 touchdowns each season since joining the team. The organization aims to build around him and avoid potential cost increases if they wait too long.
A recent report from NFL.com suggests the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are preparing to commit long-term to Baker Mayfield, and the timing of that move feels more like a “when” than an “if.”
Mayfield has delivered consistent production since arriving in Tampa Bay, throwing for 4,731 yards and 34 touchdowns in 2023 before taking another step in 2024 with 4,685 yards and 43 touchdowns. Even with a slight dip in 2025, he still produced 3,693 yards and 26 touchdowns, showing he can sustain success over seasons rather than flash it for one.
That level of stability is something this organization should be thankful for. More importantly, extending Mayfield aligns with where the roster is right now. Tampa Bay has invested quite a bit of money in the offense and should continue to build around its quarterback, which makes letting Mayfield play out the final year of his deal a risk that likely does not appeal to Buccaneers brass.
Quarterback prices don’t go down in the NFL, and waiting could make this decision more expensive if Mayfield produces at a high level again in 2026.
At this point, the direction feels fairly clear. The Buccaneers aren’t just buying into the production; they’re buying into the future, and that’s usually when deals like this get done.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs eye extension for Baker Mayfield
Baker Mayfield has thrown for 4,731 yards and 34 touchdowns in 2023, followed by 4,685 yards and 43 touchdowns in 2024, and 3,693 yards with 26 touchdowns in 2025.
The Buccaneers are considering a contract extension for Mayfield due to his consistent production and the need to build around their quarterback after significant investments in the offense.
If the Buccaneers wait to extend Mayfield's contract, they risk facing higher costs if he continues to perform at a high level in 2026, as quarterback prices typically increase in the NFL.

Erik Spoelstra supports no further penalties for LaMelo Ball after flagrant foul.
Analyst Says Cowboys May Not Trade Up in NFL Draft Despite Expectations
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill is in a dispute with FIFA over $100 travel prices for the 2026 World Cup. The disagreement centers on the financial burden placed on the state due to the event's logistics.
Boston Celtics to face Philadelphia 76ers in 2026 NBA Playoffs starting April 19.
WWE is reportedly targeting AEW's Persephone as her contract nears expiration.
Jets have second-best odds to draft QB Ty Simpson with 28 TDs
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.